Mental Health Strategies:

Handbook for Families & Carers 2005

This handbook was developed by services committed to working alongside individuals, their families and carers in the promotion of better mental health. It contains basic information on local support; treatment and information services; and a listing of internet sites for those interested in further research.

To obtain a copy please contact : Wyong Mental Health 4394 7505 or ragreen@nsccahs.health.nsw.gov.au or Carer Support 4320 5556

Mental Health Carer Representative policy

This policy was developed after consultation with statewide Mental Health Services & the Family Sensitive Working Group. The policy informs the service on the recruitment and support of carer representatives. For further information on this policy contact Carer Support on 4320 5556.

MHS Carer Data base

Mental Health Teams have developed a database listing of local carers who have accessed the MHS and requested inclusion on the list and wish to be included in regular mailouts of information and resources relevant to their caring role. For more information on this database or to have some information included in a future mailout.
Contact : 4394 7505 or ragreen@nsccahs.health.nsw.gov.au

Artwork Exhibition

The Carer Artwork awards are one of many strategies being developed by Carer Support to raise the visibility of carers and provide an opportunity for the health service and the wider community to acknowledge and celebrate the pivotal role that carers hold in our community care system.

The awards acknowledge the diversity in the caring role. After feedback from the 2004 Artworks event, Carer Support is now sponsoring a young carer and a carer award - to acknowledge that adults (mothers and fathers, spouses, partners, relatives) and young people (brothers, sisters, grandchildren and children) are undertaking a caring role. We are spreading the word that "Kids Care 2".

A disability and/or chronic illness have similar symptoms for all but the impact of the health challenge varies; likewise the impact of the caring role differs with each caring circumstance. The Artworks exhibited attest to both the similarities and differences in circumstances for carers. Embedded in the works are messages of "loss and grief", "lack of control", "confused & bottled up emotion", there are also messages of love and devotion, hope, colour and anticipation of better health & wellbeing.

The team at Carer Support welcomes the opportunity to validate, recognise and celebrate the work of Central Coast Carers.

Mental Health Artworks – Carer Support Award 2005

Frances Fletcher winner of Carer Support Award 2005 with her artwork "Sails, Water,Colour"

Central Coast Carer Support Award 2005

“Sails, Water, Colour” by Frances Fletcher 

 - $250 sponsored by Central Coast Carer Support

Young Carers Award 2005

“The Blob – Ready to Burst” by Hayden – Kids Connecting

- $50 art supplies voucher sponsored by Central Coast Carer Support